Bathroom tub leak

After discovering a leak around our bathtub we want to change the structure of the bathroom shower/tub. Currently the surround walls are tiled (which was tiled to regular sheetrock). The leak started around the knobs and over time weaped about 15". We noticed the wall paper near the tub edge turned a brown color, so I removed that and started working backwards to find the leak. The drywall was mush and some trim included. There was caulk between the tile and tub, but I cut that out during while looking for the problem. Did not take a picture before I started removing drywall, caulk, and tiles.

I contacted five contractors and we're dealing with continous rescheduling of the appointment or no call back, so my wife wants me to take a few days off from work and we make the repairs. I'd hire out the plumbing since I want a new fixture that requires a new valve.

I would remove all tiles and sheetrock on all three sides of the tub. Install new moisture resistant drywall and tape/mud joints, then install 5 piece glue on shower/tub surround.

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Bathroom tub leak

are you sure you don't want to remove old tub at this point as well ..then install a sterling unit that is designed for remodeling as you have tub and walls lock togeother a much better finish product than m/r board and tub surround....just asking.... but to answer your question ..tub surrounds are straight forward but can be tricky if walls and tub are not square and level...

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Bathroom tub leak

Yes, we had discussed replacing the tub and I agree that it would be easiler to do with all three walls removed. I can disconnect the drain line from the basement since bathroom is over top unfinished garage. My wife liked the tub other than the color due to it being metal and would retain the water temperature longer when bathing the kids.

Since we are still in the planning stage, I have not removed it from my list.
Thanks for confirming about the surround walls.

Bathroom tub leak

Is that a cast iron or steel tub? The original tub is probably more durable than a fiberglass or acrylic tub. If it is not in bad shape and your wife doesn't mind the color, you might consider building a new wall around it. You definitely want to go with a hardi board or durrock as suggested.

Another consideration with water leakage though is the floor. Has the floor under the tube sustained any water damage?